The New Economy Track is dedicated to supporting startups that are creating impactful technologies with a specific focus on accelerating inclusive innovation that encourages participation for marginalized or socially and economically disadvantaged (SEDI) communities. 

BVC is back for its 21st year on October 17-18, 2024. This annual event is the largest angel investment conference in the Pacific Northwest, offering opportunities to connect with entrepreneurs, investors and industry leaders. Secure your spot by September 30th to enjoy a 10% discount and receive a free commemorative shirt.

In 2022, 14 finalists presented their ideas and business models to an audience of hundreds at the Tower Theatre in hopes of gaining investment from prominent funds. Of those finalists, seven companies walked away that day with checks totaling $665,000 in investments. But that was just the beginning of the BVC magic.

This year’s conference will feature three competition categories: Growth Stage, Early Stage, and New Economy (formerly Impact) Tracks. The application period is open now through Friday, August 9th, and companies across the United States are invited to apply.

The 20th Annual Bend Venture Conference took place on October 19-20, 2023 at venues across Bend. During the conference, 14 finalists presented their ideas and business models to an audience of hundreds in hopes of gaining investment from prominent funds. Of those finalists, eight companies were awarded a total of $595,000 in investments.

The following companies will present in the Growth Stage and Impact Track during the 20th Annual Bend Venture Conference. In addition to company pitches, attendees will hear from leading experts in venture capital and entrepreneurship, such as Joth Ricci, CEO of Dutch Bros. Coffee, who led the company through its initial public offering (IPO), and serial entrepreneur and investor Allie Magyar, who received over $2 million in investment during the 2016 Bend Venture Conference for her event technology company, Hubb.

Almost 300 people crowded Worthy’s outdoor patio for Central Oregon PubTalk: The Road to BVC, where 10 Early Stage companies pitched their business ideas. The audience, along with an expert panel of judges, voted to decide which companies would advance to present at BVC. In addition, the audience favorite, Revino, walked away with a $3,000 check.

Each year, new BVC Growth and Impact Funds are raised to invest in the most promising companies that compete in the annual conference. The semifinalists in the Growth Stage and Impact Track will meet with investors to determine which companies will advance to the BVC stage.

Inaugural Innovation Week showcases entrepreneurs and startup support organizations throughout Oregon. Collaborators include Bend Outdoor Worx, Bend Startup Central, Built Oregon, Cultivate Bend, Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO), and VertueLab .

Announcing the 2023 Early Stage semifinalist companies advancing to the stage for Central Oregon PubTalk on September 28th at Worthy Brewing, where the audience and a panel of expert judges will decide which companies will make it to the final stage at BVC in October.

The 2023 BVC will feature impressive speakers from across the country representing angel investors, venture capitalists and entrepreneurs. Friday’s agenda will feature a Keynote presentation by Joth Ricci, Chief Executive Officer and President of Dutch Bros Coffee.

Last October, 14 finalists presented their ideas and business models to an audience of hundreds at the Tower Theatre in hopes of gaining investment from prominent funds. Of those finalists, seven companies walked away that day with checks totaling $665,000 in investments.